The Bravos have had their share of issues with the Nats this season but broke out big Mon and I expect that to be a sign of things to come. Nats are just 18-24 vs lefties and Max Fried is coming off one of his best starts of the season and his other best outing was vs WSH. Jake Irvin has been exposed as the sample expanded. Nats are 2-5 in his last 7 starts with 4 losses by 2+. Irvin has a 7.17 ERA in that span allowing a, gulp, .927 OPS.

It's time to get serious for the Braves, who are in an Affirmed vs. Alydar-type battle for the last NL wild card berth with the Mets that stands even into Wednesday. Atlanta at least looks like it means business in Washington if last night's 12-0 romp is any indicator, and Max Fried certainly looks up to the task after firing seven solid innings at Toronto last Friday, allowing only one run (unearned) and five hits in a 3-1 win, and spinning a 2.08 ERA his last four starts. The news is not so good for the Nats, on a 3-7 skid, and a loser in Jake Irvin's last three starts, with Irvin even worse the last two (11.07 ERA!). Play Braves on Run Line